Putin releases video in military uniform amid Ukraine conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared in a video released by the Kremlin on Friday, dressed in a military uniform and walking into an auxiliary command post to meet the chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces. The footage, which was broadcast on state television, was timed to reach Western audiences.

Kremlin-controlled media described the scene as a demonstration of Putin’s resolve to continue operations in Ukraine, while analysts noted the timing coincided with increased domestic criticism over fuel shortages and recent Ukrainian drone strikes that have reached Russian territory, including an attack on an oil terminal in St. Petersburg.

In a separate message posted online for the United States’ Fourth of July holiday, Putin used informal language addressed to President Donald Trump, stating,

"I wish you, Donald, and your loved ones health, well-being, and success, and all American citizens—happiness and prosperity."

The video also claimed that Russian forces had taken control of a city in the Donetsk region, Kostiantynivka, which Kremlin officials said was key to further advances. Ukrainian authorities have not confirmed the claim, and President Volodymyr Zelensky responded by inviting Putin to meet him in the city, saying he would have "no problem" if Russian forces were in control.

The release of the video follows reports that a yacht linked to Putin was moved out of Europe under military escort and that anti-aircraft systems have been positioned near the workplace of Putin’s daughter in Moscow, measures taken amid a series of Ukrainian drone attacks.